Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta commended his team’s resilience after an exhilarating 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley. The Gunners ultimately triumphed in the penalty shootout, with Fabio Vieira’s successful spot-kick clinching the coveted trophy.
During the match, Arsenal dominated the first 40 minutes, and despite new signing Kai Havertz’s attempts on target, City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega made crucial saves.
It was City’s Cole Palmer who broke the deadlock in the 77th minute with a stunning strike from just inside the box.
However, Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard equalised in the 101st minute with the help of a deflection off Manuel Akanji, leading to additional time being added for injury-related stoppages.
In the dramatic penalty shootout, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard netted the first goal, while Kevin De Bruyne missed City’s opening penalty.
The shootout continued with successful shots from Trossard and Bernardo Silva before Bukayo Saka secured the decisive victory for Arsenal, with the scoreline at 3-1.
City’s Rodri missed his penalty, and Fabio Vieira’s successful spot-kick sealed the win for the Gunners.
After the match, Arteta expressed his delight with the team’s performance against the “best team in the world.”
“He acknowledged a mistake in allowing City’s goal but praised the impact of strategic changes and substitutions, particularly Trossard and Vieira’s contributions.
The Community Shield victory provides a positive start to Arsenal’s campaign, as they prepare to face Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
On the other hand, Manchester City remains a strong contender for multiple trophies this season, including the quadruple, European Super Cup, and Club World Cup. Their campaign begins with a match against Burnley on Friday.